The hospitality industry is booming in 2025, offering a world of opportunity for ambitious and passionate individuals. If you’re wondering how to get a job in hospitality, you’ve come to the right place. With a strong job market, competitive salaries, and clear paths for advancement, there has never been a better time to start your career. According to the latest data, compensation is on the rise, with the average salary hitting $57,716 annually. You can explore the full details in our 2025 Hospitality Industry Salary Report. This guide will provide you with the roadmap you need for a successful hospitality career entry.
Hospitality is more than just a job; it’s a dynamic career field centered on creating exceptional experiences for guests. The work is rewarding, the environments are vibrant, and the skills you learn are transferable across the globe. This is an industry where you can start at an entry-level position and, with dedication, climb the ladder to a management role. Director-level positions are seeing over 40% growth, and Hotel General Manager salaries have increased by a staggering 28% this year alone.
Understanding how to get a job in hospitality involves more than just submitting applications. It requires a strategic approach, from identifying the right role and honing essential skills to mastering the interview process. Understanding how to get a job in hospitality is essential, and this hospitality employment guide is designed to walk you through every step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to land your dream role.
We will cover everything you need to know, including a deep dive into the industry’s sectors, the most common entry-level jobs, and the critical skills employers are desperately seeking. We’ll also provide a step-by-step job search strategy, networking tips, and expert advice on crafting a standout application. If you are serious about how to get a job in hospitality in 2025, this comprehensive resource is your key to success.
What is the Hospitality Industry and Why Choose It as a Career?
The hospitality industry is a broad category of fields within the service industry that includes lodging, food and drink service, event planning, theme parks, travel, and tourism. It’s a multi-billion dollar industry focused on providing excellent service and creating memorable experiences for customers. The question of how to break into hospitality often starts with understanding its diverse sectors.
The industry is typically broken down into several major sectors, each offering unique career paths:
- Hotels and Lodging: This includes everything from large hotel chains and boutique hotels to motels and resorts. Roles range from front desk and housekeeping to sales and general management.
- Food and Beverage (F&B): This is a massive sector that includes restaurants, bars, catering services, and nightclubs. Opportunities exist in both front-of-house (serving) and back-of-house (culinary) roles.
- Travel and Tourism: This sector involves airlines, cruise lines, travel agencies, and tour operators who help people plan and enjoy their travels.
- Event Planning and Management: Professionals in this area organize and execute events like conferences, weddings, and concerts, often working within hotels or for specialized agencies.
- Resort and Recreation Management: This includes managing operations at resorts, theme parks, country clubs, and other recreational facilities.
Choosing a career in this field means embracing a people-centric role with immense growth potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in leisure and hospitality is projected to grow, showcasing a robust and resilient job market. Getting a job in hotels or restaurants is often the first step in a long and fulfilling career journey.
Current Job Market Outlook for Hospitality Careers
The job market for hospitality industry jobs in 2025 is incredibly strong. The industry has not only recovered from past challenges but is now expanding rapidly to meet renewed travel and dining demand. This has created a high number of consistent openings, especially for entry-level positions, making it an ideal time for a hospitality career entry.
This demand is driving significant salary growth across the board. As mentioned, Hotel General Manager salaries saw a 28% increase in 2025, reflecting the high value placed on experienced leadership. Director-level roles are also experiencing over 40% growth in demand, creating clear pathways for advancement. This positive outlook is a key reason why learning how to get a job in hospitality right now is such a valuable endeavor.
Common Entry-Level Hospitality Jobs to Start Your Career
For those new to the field, understanding the available entry-level roles is the first step in the hospitality job search. These positions are the backbone of the industry and provide the foundational experience needed for long-term success. Most do not require extensive prior experience, focusing instead on attitude and a willingness to learn.
Front Desk and Guest Services Roles
Front desk roles are the face of any lodging establishment. If you’re a people person, this is an excellent place to start. Common positions include Front Desk Agent, Guest Service Representative, and Concierge Assistant. These roles require strong communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and basic computer proficiency.
The primary responsibility is to ensure a smooth and pleasant guest experience from check-in to check-out. Advancement paths can lead to Front Desk Supervisor, Guest Services Manager, and eventually Rooms Division Manager. Mastering these roles is a critical part of getting a job in hotels and building a management career. For specific preparation, check out these common front desk interview questions.
Food and Beverage Service Positions
The F&B sector is fast-paced and energetic, offering numerous entry points. Roles like Server, Bartender, Host/Hostess, and Barista are always in demand. Key skills include multitasking, excellent customer service, the ability to work under pressure, and for some roles, cash handling and menu knowledge.
These positions offer a direct way to impact the guest experience and often provide opportunities for significant income through tips. A successful server or bartender can move into supervisory roles, restaurant management, or even beverage director positions. This path is a popular answer to the question of how to get a job in hospitality.
Housekeeping and Maintenance Jobs
Often overlooked, housekeeping and maintenance are crucial to a property’s success. Roles like Room Attendant, Housekeeping Supervisor, and Maintenance Technician ensure the property is clean, safe, and functional. These jobs require a strong work ethic, incredible attention to detail, and reliability.
While physically demanding, these positions offer stable employment and clear opportunities for advancement. A dedicated Room Attendant can become a Housekeeping Supervisor and eventually an Executive Housekeeper, a key leadership role in any hotel. This is a practical route for those focused on how to get hired in hospitality through operational excellence.
Kitchen and Culinary Entry Roles
For those passionate about food, the kitchen is where the magic happens. Entry-level roles include Line Cook, Prep Cook, and Dishwasher. These positions are the starting point for developing culinary skills under the guidance of experienced chefs. Food safety certification is often required or highly encouraged.
The kitchen environment is disciplined and high-energy, but it offers a direct path to becoming a Sous Chef, Head Chef, or Executive Chef. This is a fantastic way to build a specialized, in-demand skill set within the hospitality world. The American Hotel & Lodging Association emphasizes the importance of these foundational roles in maintaining high standards across the industry.
Key Skills You Need to Get Hired in Hospitality
Landing hospitality jobs requires more than just being available. Employers are looking for a specific blend of soft and hard skills that demonstrate you can thrive in a guest-focused environment. Developing these skills is a core component of figuring out how to get a job in hospitality and succeed long-term.
Customer Service Excellence
This is the number one skill in hospitality. It’s the ability to anticipate guest needs, resolve issues with a positive attitude, and consistently create a welcoming atmosphere. You must demonstrate a genuine desire to help people and make their experience memorable.
In interviews, be prepared with specific examples of times you provided excellent service, even if it was in a different industry like retail. Explain how you handled a difficult customer or went above and beyond to exceed expectations. This proves you understand the core of the hospitality mission.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Clear, professional, and friendly communication is essential. This includes active listening to understand guest requests, speaking clearly and concisely, and maintaining a positive and professional demeanor, even under pressure. Written communication skills are also important for roles involving email or reservation systems.
Teamwork is a massive part of hospitality, so your ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds is critical. Being multilingual is also a significant advantage in many markets, so be sure to highlight any language skills on your application.
Flexibility and Adaptability
The hospitality industry doesn’t operate on a 9-to-5 schedule. Employers need staff who are flexible and willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Your ability to adapt to a constantly changing environment, from a sudden rush of guests to an unexpected problem, is highly valued.
Problem-solving on the fly and multitasking are daily requirements. Demonstrating that you are adaptable and can maintain your composure during busy periods will make you a much more attractive candidate in your hospitality job search.
Technical and Industry-Specific Skills
While many entry-level roles provide on-the-job training, having some technical skills can give you a major advantage. Familiarity with Property Management Systems (PMS) like Opera or Maestro, or Point of Sale (POS) systems like Toast or Micros, is a huge plus.
Certifications are also a great way to stand out. A ServSafe certification for food handling, TIPS certification for responsible alcohol service, or even basic first aid can make your application more compelling. These show a proactive approach to your hospitality career entry.
How to Find and Apply for Hospitality Jobs: Complete Strategy
A successful hospitality job search requires a multi-pronged strategy. Knowing where to look and how to present yourself is just as important as having the right skills. This section provides a complete strategy for anyone wondering how to get a job in hospitality efficiently and effectively.
Where to Find Hospitality Job Openings
Don’t limit your search to a single source. The best approach is to cast a wide net across various platforms where hospitality industry jobs are posted. This increases your chances of finding the perfect opportunity.
- Online Job Boards: General sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are great starting points. However, you should also focus on industry-specific boards like HospitalityJobs.com, which feature curated listings from top employers.
- Company Career Pages: Go directly to the source. Major brands like Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and Four Seasons have robust career sections on their websites with all their current openings.
- Local Properties: Check the websites of local hotels, restaurants, and event venues in your area. Many independent businesses post jobs directly on their own sites.
- Walk-in Applications: The hospitality industry still values face-to-face interaction. Dressing professionally and dropping off your resume in person at a hotel or restaurant can make a strong impression, especially for entry-level roles.
- Recruitment Agencies: For management or specialized roles, hospitality-focused recruitment agencies can connect you with unadvertised opportunities.
- Industry Job Fairs: Attending hiring events allows you to meet with multiple employers in one day, learn about different companies, and potentially interview on the spot. Organizations like the National Restaurant Association often host or promote such events.
Using a combination of these methods is the most effective way to approach your job search. This comprehensive strategy is key to understanding how to get a job in hospitality.
How to Tailor Your Application for Hospitality Roles
Submitting a generic resume to dozens of openings is a recipe for failure. To stand out, you must tailor each application to the specific role and employer. This is one of the most important hospitality job application tips.
Start by thoroughly researching the company. Understand their brand, their values, and their target clientele. Is it a luxury hotel known for personalized service or a high-volume restaurant focused on efficiency? This context will help you customize your application. Your goal is to show them why you are the perfect fit for *their* team.
Next, carefully read the job description and customize your resume to highlight the skills and experiences they are looking for. Use keywords from the description. If they ask for experience with a specific PMS system and you have it, make sure it’s prominently featured. Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., “helped increase guest satisfaction scores by 15%” or “managed reservations for a 200-seat restaurant”).
A tailored application demonstrates genuine interest and effort, which goes a long way with hiring managers. This is a critical step for anyone serious about how to get hired in hospitality. For expert guidance, consider using these hospitality resume examples and templates as a starting point.
Following Up on Your Applications
Don’t just apply and wait. A professional and timely follow-up can move your application from the “maybe” pile to the “interview” pile. The key is to be persistent without being a pest. This is a crucial, yet often forgotten, part of landing hospitality jobs.
A good rule of thumb is to follow up via email about 3-5 business days after submitting your application. Your message should be brief, professional, and reiterate your strong interest in the role and the company. Mention the specific position you applied for and briefly highlight one or two key qualifications that make you a great fit.
If you don’t hear back after a week, a polite phone call to the HR department or hiring manager can be appropriate. Simply state your name, the position you applied for, and that you’re calling to confirm your application was received and to express your continued interest. Keeping a spreadsheet to track your applications, follow-up dates, and contacts will keep you organized and efficient.
Building Your Hospitality Network to Land Jobs
In the people-focused world of hospitality, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Networking is a powerful tool for discovering unadvertised opportunities and getting your foot in the door. Building connections is a proactive strategy for those learning how to get a job in hospitality.
Attending Industry Events and Job Fairs
Make an effort to attend local hospitality networking events, trade shows, and career fairs. These are fantastic opportunities to meet hiring managers, recruiters, and influential professionals in a relaxed setting. Come prepared with a polished elevator pitch and professional business cards or a digital equivalent.
The goal isn’t just to ask for a job. It’s to build genuine relationships. Ask thoughtful questions about their career, their company, and industry trends. Listen more than you talk. These connections can pay dividends down the road, making your future hospitality job search much easier.
Leveraging LinkedIn and Social Media
LinkedIn is an indispensable networking tool. Optimize your profile with a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a detailed summary that highlights your passion for hospitality. Use keywords related to the roles you’re targeting to make your profile more discoverable by recruiters.
Connect with professionals working at companies you admire. Join hospitality-focused LinkedIn groups to participate in discussions and stay on top of industry news. Following and engaging with content from target employers shows your interest and keeps you on their radar. This digital networking is essential for a modern approach to how to get a job in hospitality.
Professional Associations and Organizations
Joining a professional association is an excellent way to network and demonstrate your commitment to the industry. Organizations like the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the National Restaurant Association offer memberships, events, and resources that can be invaluable for your career.
Many cities also have local hospitality associations that host regular meetings and networking events. For students, college hospitality organizations provide a great way to connect with peers and industry leaders before graduation. Membership in these groups can be a powerful addition to your resume and a key part of your strategy for how to break into hospitality.
Hospitality Job Application Tips That Get Results
Your application materials are your first impression. A polished resume and a compelling cover letter can make the difference between getting an interview and being ignored. Follow these hospitality job application tips to ensure your materials get the attention they deserve.
Crafting a Winning Hospitality Resume
Your resume needs to be clean, professional, and tailored for hospitality roles. Start with a strong summary or objective that immediately states your career goals and highlights your passion for customer service. Use a clear, chronological format that is easy for hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan.
Use powerful action verbs to describe your experience (e.g., coordinated, managed, resolved, assisted, served, exceeded). Quantify your accomplishments with numbers whenever possible. Instead of saying “Handled guest complaints,” try “Resolved over 20 guest issues per shift with a 95% satisfaction rate.” Also, be sure to include a dedicated skills section and list any relevant certifications like ServSafe or TIPS.
Writing Compelling Cover Letters
While not always required, a well-written cover letter is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your personality and enthusiasm. It allows you to tell a story that your resume can’t. Always personalize your cover letter for the specific job and company; never use a generic template.
Your cover letter should have a clear structure: an opening that hooks the reader, a body that connects your experience directly to the job requirements, and a closing that reiterates your interest and includes a call to action (requesting an interview). This is your chance to explain why you are passionate about hospitality and why you want to work for *this* specific employer. This is a vital part of successfully learning how to get a job in hospitality.
Building a Professional Portfolio
For certain roles, particularly in event planning or management, a professional portfolio can be a powerful tool. This can be a digital or physical collection of your work that showcases your skills and accomplishments. It provides tangible proof of your abilities.
Include items like photos of events you’ve managed, copies of certifications, letters of recommendation, positive performance reviews, or examples of marketing materials you’ve created. A well-organized portfolio demonstrates professionalism and preparedness, helping you stand out during the interview process for competitive hospitality industry jobs.
Preparing for Hospitality Job Interviews
Congratulations, your application was a success and you’ve landed an interview! Now it’s time to prepare. A great interview is your final step in the process of how to get a job in hospitality. Your performance will determine whether you receive a job offer.
Common Hospitality Interview Questions
Hiring managers in hospitality use behavioral questions to gauge your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle pressure. Practice your answers to these common questions:
- “Tell me about yourself and your interest in hospitality.” – Keep it concise and connect your story to the industry.
- “How do you handle difficult customers?” – Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a specific example.
- “Describe a time you went above and beyond for a guest.” – Showcase your commitment to excellent service.
- “Why do you want to work for our hotel/restaurant?” – Show you’ve done your research on their brand and values.
- “How do you handle stress and busy periods?” – Emphasize your ability to stay calm, prioritize, and multitask.
- “What does excellent customer service mean to you?” – Define it in your own words, focusing on guest satisfaction.
- “How do you work in a team environment?” – Provide examples of successful collaboration.
- “Where do you see yourself in 5 years in hospitality?” – Show ambition and a desire for growth within the industry.
For a more exhaustive list and detailed answering strategies, review this comprehensive hospitality interview questions guide.
Interview Presentation and Etiquette
Your presentation matters just as much as your answers. Dress professionally; business casual is usually a safe bet, but err on the side of more formal if you’re unsure. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to show you are punctual and respectful of their time.
Bring extra copies of your resume, a notepad, and a pen. Maintain good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and smile. Be an active listener. At the end of the interview, always have a few thoughtful questions prepared to ask them about the role, the team, or the company culture. Finally, send a personalized thank-you email or note within 24 hours to reiterate your interest.
Other Ways to Break Into the Hospitality Industry
A traditional job application isn’t the only path to a great career. There are several alternative routes for those looking to break into hospitality, especially for individuals seeking management-track roles or those changing careers.
Hospitality Internships and Training Programs
Many large hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton offer structured management training programs or internships. These programs provide hands-on experience across various departments, giving you a holistic understanding of hotel operations. They are an incredible accelerator for your career.
Internships are also a fantastic way to gain experience while still in school. They often lead directly to full-time job offers upon graduation. These structured programs are a proven method for those wondering how to get a job in hospitality with a clear path to leadership.
Education and Certification Programs
Formal education can provide a significant advantage. A degree or certificate in Hospitality Management equips you with the business acumen and theoretical knowledge needed for leadership roles. This education is often a direct path to understanding how to become a hotel manager.
Beyond a degree, specific certifications can boost your resume. As mentioned, ServSafe, TIPS, and CPR/First Aid are valuable for many roles. Pursuing these shows initiative and a commitment to professional development, making your hospitality career entry much smoother.
Starting in Related Industries
Skills from other industries are highly transferable to hospitality. If you have a background in retail, you already have valuable customer service and sales experience. Call center experience translates directly to front desk and reservations roles.
Don’t discount your past experience. Frame it in the context of hospitality on your resume and in interviews. Highlight your communication, problem-solving, and people skills to show that you have the foundational abilities to succeed.
Hospitality Job Search Mistakes That Cost You Opportunities
Knowing what *not* to do is as important as knowing what to do. Avoiding these common mistakes will significantly increase your chances of success in your quest for how to get a job in hospitality.
- Submitting Generic Applications: Failing to tailor your resume and cover letter for each specific job is the most common mistake. It shows a lack of effort and interest.
- Poor Presentation: An unprofessional appearance at an interview or a resume filled with typos can instantly disqualify you. Attention to detail is paramount in hospitality.
- Lack of Employer Research: Not knowing anything about the company you’re interviewing with is a major red flag. It shows you aren’t genuinely interested in them.
- Not Highlighting Customer Service: Your application and interview answers must be filled with examples of your customer service abilities. It’s the core skill of the industry.
- Being Inflexible: A rigid attitude about your schedule or duties can be a deal-breaker. Hospitality requires adaptability.
- Failing to Follow Up: Not sending a thank-you note after an interview can be perceived as a lack of interest.
- Ignoring Smaller Properties: Don’t just focus on the big brands. Independent hotels and restaurants can offer fantastic growth opportunities and a great work environment.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll stay ahead of the competition. The process of how to get hired in hospitality is about demonstrating professionalism at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Job in Hospitality
How do I get a job in hospitality with no experience?
Learning how to get a job in hospitality starts with Getting a job in hospitality with no experience is very achievable. Focus on entry-level positions like front desk agent, server, busser, or room attendant, as these roles prioritize attitude and soft skills over direct experience. On your resume and in interviews, highlight transferable skills from other areas of your life, such as customer service from retail, teamwork from sports, or time management from school projects.
Show a strong enthusiasm for learning and a genuine passion for serving others. Consider obtaining a basic certification like ServSafe to show initiative. Emphasizing your reliability, positive attitude, and willingness to be trained is often more important to employers than a long work history. This is the foundation of how to get a job in hospitality when you’re just starting out.
What qualifications do you need to work in hospitality?
Qualifications vary by role. For most entry-level positions, a high school diploma or equivalent is the only educational requirement. The most important qualifications are soft skills: excellent customer service, strong communication, a positive attitude, and flexibility. For specialized roles, you may need specific certifications, like a food handler’s permit for kitchen staff or an alcohol service certification for bartenders.
For management positions, employers often prefer or require a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management or a related field, along with several years of industry experience. In short, the answer to how to get a job in hospitality depends on the career level you are targeting.
How long does it take to get hired in the hospitality industry?
The hiring process in hospitality can be relatively quick, especially for non-management roles. For positions like server or front desk agent, the timeline from application to offer can be as short as one to two weeks, sometimes even faster if a property is hiring urgently. The process typically involves an initial screening, one or two rounds of interviews, and a background check.
For management or corporate roles, the process is more extensive and can take four to eight weeks, involving multiple interviews with different department heads and senior leaders. The speed of your hospitality job search can also be affected by hiring seasons, which are often busiest just before peak tourist seasons.
What is the average salary for entry-level hospitality jobs?
While the overall industry average salary is a healthy $57,716, entry-level salaries will start lower. For non-tipped positions like front desk agent or housekeeper, you can expect to earn an hourly wage typically ranging from $15 to $22 per hour, depending on the market and the type of property. Tipped positions like server or bartender have a lower base wage, but with tips, total earnings can often exceed $25-$30 per hour or more.
The key takeaway is the potential for rapid growth. A dedicated employee can see significant wage increases and promotions within the first one to two years, making the initial phase of their hospitality career entry a stepping stone to higher earnings.
Do hospitality jobs require a college degree?
The vast majority of hospitality industry jobs, particularly at the entry and operational levels, do not require a college degree. Experience, skills, and a strong work ethic are far more important. You can build a very successful and high-paying career in hospitality without a degree by working your way up through the ranks.
However, for senior management positions (like General Manager) or corporate roles in finance, marketing, or human resources, a bachelor’s degree is often preferred or required. A degree can accelerate your path to leadership, but it is by no means the only path to success in this industry.
What are the best entry-level hospitality positions?
The “best” entry-level position depends on your career goals. For those aiming for hotel management, a Front Desk Agent role is ideal because it provides a comprehensive overview of hotel operations and direct guest interaction. For aspiring restaurateurs or chefs, starting as a Server or Line Cook provides essential foundational experience.
Roles like Concierge or Bell Attendant can be great for those who excel at personalized service and enjoy a dynamic environment. Ultimately, the best starting point is one that aligns with your interests and offers a clear path for advancement. These roles are all excellent answers to how to get a job in hospitality and build a future.
How can I stand out when applying for hospitality jobs?
To stand out, you must go beyond the basics. Tailor every application to the specific employer. Quantify your achievements on your resume with numbers and data. In your cover letter and interview, share specific stories that demonstrate your exceptional customer service and problem-solving skills. Obtain relevant certifications to show you are proactive.
Furthermore, your enthusiasm and passion for the industry can be a major differentiator. Show that you are not just looking for a job, but that you want to build a career in hospitality. Professionalism, a positive attitude, and genuine interest in the company’s brand will make you a memorable candidate in your hospitality job search.
Is the hospitality industry a good career choice in 2025?
Absolutely. The hospitality industry is an excellent career choice in 2025. The job market is robust with strong, consistent demand for talent at all levels. Salaries are rising significantly, with leadership roles seeing major increases (e.g., a 28% salary jump for Hotel GMs). The industry offers clear and often rapid career advancement opportunities for dedicated individuals.
Beyond the financial and career growth aspects, it offers rewarding work where you can make a positive impact on people’s lives every day. If you enjoy a dynamic, people-focused environment, a career in hospitality can be incredibly fulfilling and is a smart choice in the current economic landscape.
What skills are most important for hospitality jobs?
The most critical skills are a blend of soft and hard skills. The top five most important are: 1) Customer Service Excellence (the ability to create positive guest experiences), 2) Communication (clear, professional, and empathetic interaction), 3) Flexibility and Adaptability (handling changing priorities and irregular hours), 4) Problem-Solving (thinking quickly to resolve guest issues), and 5) Teamwork (collaborating effectively with colleagues).
Technical skills, such as proficiency with PMS or POS software, are also highly valued but can often be taught on the job. Mastering the core soft skills is the true key to figuring out how to get a job in hospitality and excelling in it.
How do I advance my career in hospitality?
Advancement in hospitality comes from a combination of excellent performance, continuous learning, and strategic networking. Start by mastering your current role and consistently exceeding expectations. Express your interest in growth to your manager and seek out opportunities to cross-train in other departments to broaden your skill set.
Pursue additional certifications or education to enhance your qualifications. Build strong relationships with colleagues and leaders within your organization and the broader industry. When a promotional opportunity arises, your proven track record, expanded skills, and strong network will make you a top candidate for the position. This proactive approach is the core of this hospitality employment guide.